AI and Car Design - What Could Go Wrong?

There's been a considerable amount of talk around some new Artificial Intelligence generators that can take two or more words and mash them into one picture. Naturally, I decided to play around with some car brands, models, terms, etc.. Keep in mind this is the 'mini' version of the free internet generator, Craiyon. 

What if...

Tesla and Ford 

I don't really see the Ford part here, unless they're inserting the Ford Mach-E. It's essentially a less sleek Tesla Model 3. Unfortunately, the generator also often pops out closeup images as well. 

My rating: 2/10

McLaren and Toyota

This is interesting. If you look really closely, you could maybe see a Prius or Supra. But once again, one of the prompts is overwhelming the other. 

My rating: 3/10

BMW and Lamborghini

I now understand why this 'service' is free - it's hardly impressive. Here we have a Gallardo or Huracan, but my best guess for the BMW side would have to be a M8 or M5. Not quite a good mashup.

My rating: 3/10

In conclusion, the software is still in development. None of the prompt selections I played around with were remotely well done. Hopefully this means robots won't be taking over anytime soon. 

Josiah Peters, MTT

Hyundai N-Vision 74: Pounding on the Misery for Rivals.

 For a hot minute, Hyundai/Kia/Genesis has been an absolute force to be reckoned with. In the last 3 or so years, you would have to seriously look at the lineups of that trio before making a purchase. Want a Civic? You could very well go for the Kia K5 or Hyundai Elantra. Thinking about a Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander? You would be mistaken to overlook the wonderful Kia Telluride. The Genesis brand is also filled to the brim with gorgeous and luxurious sedans and now SUVs. And of course, the Kia Stinger will embarrass an Audi or BMW sports car for much less cash. 

 In recent car shows, the South Korean franchise demonstrated that they can and will continue their outright dominance on the industry in different ways. The N-Vision74 is one of the most exciting things to come out of the brand recently, and that's saying something.  

Starting with the N-Vision 74, because how couldn't you. MotorTrend called it the "Hottest concept car of the decade", and I agree. Before you complain about it being non-production, many people inside the brand are reportedly pushing for it to reach the market. Hyundai says the vast majority of the technology and hardware inside the 74 are already used across other models. 

The name '74' harks back to another Hyundai concept car, designed in 19744 by G. Giugarrio. He also designed the 2010 Camaro and Bentley Continental GT and was aiming to hit a similar home run for the South Korean brand. Although that never worked out, I have a funny feeling that, if the N-Vision74 hits the market, it will be one of the all-time successes for the company, and the sports car world. 

If there's one thing that worries me, it's what powers the 74. It's a fuel cell. That might ring a bell, because every time an automaker experiments with a fuel cell, it's a disaster. The Toyota Mirai and Honda Clarity Fuel Cell are some standout examples. However, Hyundai have been rocking with fuel cells for decades, so I trust them to figure it out. After all, they are arguably the best car company in the world, barring sports car brands. 

"We would like to make this car as soon as possible," N brand management team department head Joonwoo Park says

It's exciting stuff. Although price and power have not been confirmed yet, it's safe to say it will follow the Kia/Hyundai formula. Less money than competitors + more power/luxury/value = production ready. 

Signing off -

Josiah Peters, MTT

How To: Draw A Realistic Sports Car

Cars are pretty amazing things. Being good at art and impressing others is also great. Why not combine the two? Here I'll run you through how I achieved peak realistic appearance with my Dodge Viper drawing. 

-

STEP 1: Try to jot down the general outline. You can take scale measurements, or even trace the picture you're using if you're desperate.

-

STEP 2: Add details

The pencil-sketched details won't make it to the final drawing, but they are vital to know where everything is. Try to add the main details such as wheels, windshield, mirrors, headlights, grille, etc..

STEP 3: Add bases.

For realistic drawings, you need to layer several different, well, layers, of ink marker, I use Crayola, to achieve a good texture that doesn't simply have one color, and so you can make shading stand out later. I start out with black around the tires and grille. In this case, since the car is largely black, I added plenty. 

STEP 4: After layering ink markers, add more details, and put white marker to replicate the shiny glimmers you'll see on a car. Just add little dots. 

STEP 5: Do whatever you think you've missed. 

You'll need to eyeball this one, and my approach is different every time. Typically, I'll try to make the angles look right on the car. To do this, I'll use shading (darker colors) to emphasize a lighter section. You'll see this especially under the right headlight, in the grey section. 

STEP 6: Sign it. 

Josiah Peters, MoreThanTransport

Why Cars Are Actually 'More Than Transport"

 We've all heard said, perhaps you've said it yourself. 

"As long as it gets me from point A to B, I'm happy'. 

Well, in all honesty, this kind of statement is quite enraging among the car lover community. Let me walk you through why. 

Cars are a necessity, why make that a low point?

We all enjoy great food. Beautiful houses. Stylish clothes. Why don't people care more about cars? If you spend just a bit more, you'll end up with a car that is vastly more comfortable, better quality, more interesting/fun, and has better tech and style. 

You're going to spend hundreds of hours, drive thousands of miles, in your car. Opt for a comfortable one that will make your time fly by. 

If you really insist, go get yourself a point A-B car that you're going to have to drive in for long distances and for a long time. Or you could choose an acclaimed model that can promise long term comfortability.  

Cars can be beautiful things. Go ahead and have fun with them. 

There have been some thoroughly gorgeous cars over the years, externally and internally. You might fall in love with a particular one. For me, that was the 2001 Acura Integra Type-R, or a new one like the Kia K5. That's not even reaching into the sports car sphere. Almost every one is a beautiful design, and even if you never drive it, you can buy a model of it or a piece of art, and cherish the wonderful look. 

Just think, for around 5k, your life could be considerably boosted by jumping from, for example, the bland Toyota Avalon to the Kia Stinger.

Just something to think about.

Josiah Peters, MTT

First Look, Reaction: Honda HR-V

 

The new Honda HR-V has been revealed to the world, and it's an improvement, whatever way you view it. Although the over-seas variant is definitively sleeker, the American market version is still a very impressive design.

The new HR-V transitions from the platform it had been using previously, now riding on the Civic platform. The wheelbase is considerably longer, and will likely result in benefitting from the great handling that defines the Civic. The engine will also almost certainly be confirmed as the Civic's 180 hp naturally aspirated inline-4.  As expected, Front-Wheel-Drive will be standard, with the option of upgrading to AWD. 

Honda has also hinted at a hybrid HR-V in the near future, likely slightly after the base model releases. 

Unfortunately for us, we have not been shown any interior pictures at this point. You can probably expect the Civic infotainment system to feature though, which is a big win. 

On the exterior design, the automotive world is largely in favor of the changes, as am I. My view is that every aspect of the HR-V, not least it's appearance, has evolved to one that has a defined personality, something that the previous generation lacked. A Car&Driver poll asked what readers thought of the exterior design, and 69% think it is 'more cleanly styled'. 

All things considered, Honda have pulled off a big win here, even before anyone has driven it.

--

Josiah Peters, MoreThanTransport.

First Look, Reaction - Volkswagen ID Buzz

 

The auto world has been waiting for 5 years (It was shown as a concept in 2017 at the Detroit Auto Show) for a new VW van. We're going to have to wait 2 more years for it to arrive in the United States, but VW have finally shown us what the production version is going to look like. The public reaction has been mixed. Some, like myself, think it's a cute little thing that I'd love to see on the street. Others think it has failed in recreating the 60's versions persona. 

VW has said that all US spec Buzzes will come standard with 3 rows of seats. The electric van will be able to pump out 201 hp, 229 lb-ft of torque, and a limited top speed of only 90 mph. However, Car&Driver reported that the Buzz felt capable and happy cruising at 75 mph, and that the understeer issue reported in previous generations is much better, likely due to the electric powertrain that is more balanced in relation to handling. The chassis is impressive, and acceleration comes quick enough. The Buzz is also super quiet, something no other VW van could claim. 

Although some might argue that the new Volkswagen ID Buzz fails its predecessors, it is undeniably a success if you don't consider the previous generation's legacy. 

-

MTT Rating - 8.2/10

+ Playful/happy appearance, Little to no road noise

- Retro homage isn't clear, A-Pillar shouldn't have those designs

Josiah Peters, MoreThanTransport

First Look, Reaction: Acura MDX Type-S

 

  The Acura MDX Type-S is here, and it's a winner. The Japanese brand has been hit and miss recently, with several of their cars like the new Integra or base MDX receiving harsh criticism from media and customers alike. Thankfully, that trend doesn't continue with the MDX Type-S. The sporty SUV learns from the base model that a little bit of everything isn't a great idea. Here, we have a vastly luxurious, impressive performing, sharp looking SUV that checks all the boxes for an entry level luxury SUV. It falls under the revived "Type-S" moniker, (Think BMW M, Mercedes AMG, Toyota GR) which emphasizes a higher level of performance. It certainly does that, with a phenomenal 3.0L V-6 engine that pumps out 355 hp, 65 more than the standard MDX. 

The MDX Type-S is also a considerably better-looking crossover as well. On the front fascia, you can observe the shape of the grille inspires some new line flow. The headlights are also sharp looking, while the black trim contrasts wonderfully especially with the Type-S signature gold. The grille also features terrific weaving of lines, instead of the typical design you would see on the average car. 

-

MTT Rating - 9.5/10

+ Knockout styling, Improved performance, quality materials.

- Creases on the fascia are a bit polarizing, side profile void of details.

-Josiah Peters, MoreThanTransport

“Whoa, this is heavy.” - DeLorean Teases New Electric Car, Expected This Year!

 

The iconic DeLorean, made famous by its role in the legendary movie "Back to the Future", is comin' back, baby. For years since it exited the market, there have been rumors of it returning, but now, we are finally getting a new DeLorean.  Apparently, the brand, which came out of bankruptcy, paid for Super Bowl ads in certain markets, and the website revealed to subscribers that the car is making a return. 

The official website is interestingly scarce of info, and is run by the new owner of DeLorean, DeLorean Motors Reimagined LLC, and is headed by executives from EV manufacturer Karma. The company will now be located in San Antonio, TX, pending approval. 

We do not know much about how this will play out, but DeLorean has set a date of late 2022/early 2023 until the car is released. Stay tuned to MTT for updates.

(UPDATE) The new DeLorean will debut at Pebble Beach Auto Show this August.

Alfa Romeo Tonale: First Look at Alfa's Electric Future

 

Alfa-Romeo have finally revealed their new Tonale sport, and it is thoroughly impressive in many ways. First, it features 3 hybrid powertrain options. This is a massive step for Alfa to move into the future, which is increasingly certainly electric-focused. The Italian brand is promising a fully electric lineup by 2027, and the Tonale having a hybrid option is definitely a step in the right direction. Another sucess of the Tonale is its design. It is wonderfully artistic and sporty and is easily the best-looking compact luxury crossover in the world, at least in my opinion. The wheels are absolutely killer, and the fascia is connected and undeniably Italian.  

Every Tonale to roll off the factory features an exclusive NFT to manage vehicle data. Once the crossover is delivered to a customer, the NFT continually updates to manage variables such as mileage, service history, and accident history. 

The pricing for the Alfa Romeo has not been released, but my guess is that the base model will start around $35-37K, the Tonale Ti at $42-43K, and the Tonale Veloce at roughly $45K. 

Holy Smokes! - Aston Martin DBX 707 Debuts With 697 HP.

 

Aston Martin has, somehow, made the gorgeous DBX performance crossover even hotter. The English firm has been teasing a more powerful DBX for a while now, and here we have it. The brand has claimed that the DBX 707 will be the quickest performance SUV on the market, and that would mean it would need to beat the Tesla Model X (2.3 secs to 60 mph) the Lamborghini KT Urus S (2.7 secs), the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S Hybrid (3.2 secs) and others. CEO Tobias Moers is looking to prove his claim with both 0-60 mph and Nurburgring tests. The DBX 707 has received a substantial boost over the "normal" DBX, with the 707 now having 697 hp which comes out of a 4.0L AMG V-8 engine. That horsepower figure easily bests the previously mentioned hyper-SUVs. 

The visual distinctions include a larger front end, larger grille, and incredible sport seats. Mercedes Benz tech is used heavily on the 707, (Remember, Aston is sort of broke) , but they say a move to 100% Aston parts is coming. All things considered, the only thing undesirable about the beautiful Aston Martin DBX 707 is the price ($235,086), but even that is a bargain compared to other monster crossovers. 

-Josiah Peters, MoreThanTransport

Looking Good: Acura Integra Interior Revealed

 

Acura have recently shown us the interior of the new Integra, alongside other new products like the RDX A-Spec, TLX Type-S, and MDX Type-S. The interior, like the exterior, shares heavily with the Honda Civic Si. However, Acura did well differentiating the two, and the Integra boasts an artistic and professional looking cockpit. The tan contrasts well with the gray dashboard and wheel, and there looks to be plenty of space.

It is expected that the new Integra will share a powertrain with the Civic Si, and will feature a Turbo 1.5L Inline 4 Cylinder with above 200 hp. And A-Spec or Type-S variants that come later will likely upgrade to the Civic Type-R setup. We'll hear more details about the highly anticipated Integra later on this year. Stay tuned to MTT for more of that.

-Josiah Peters

BMW, What Have You Done..... 2023 X2 Is A Dazzling Mess

 

BMW have came out with yet another highly questionable design, with their 2023 X2 Edition GoldPlay. They went for a far from classy San Remo Green - Galvanic Gold color scheme. Apart from the design differences, the crossover is mostly unchanged.  It carries over most of the M Sport goodies, including the lower drive height, bucket seats, bigger air intakes, an aero package, and gloss black trim. Although I think the graphics on the doors, grille outlines, and mirrors are cheesy and unattractive, the wheels are some of the best I've ever seen, right up there with the likes of the Genesis G90, Alfa Romeo 8C, or Mercedes SL. All things considered, the new BMW X2 Edition GoldPlay isn't anything particularly amazing, but it does have some interesting quirks.

Josiah Peters, MoreThanTransport

3 Outstanding Car Designs of 2021/22

 One of the most important elements to a car, especially higher-priced ones, is style. People want to have a car that reflects their personality and makes a statement. Here I have compiled the 3 car designs of the last year or so that impress me the most. 

1: Maserati MC20

An absolute stunner from every angle, Maserati's latest and greatest supercar has it all. The design flows well and the entirety of the design is well connected. It has an unmistakable Italian feel to it, something that of course is a major factor to many supercar customers. 

10/10

2: Acura TLX Type-S

Even as Acura evolves into more of a luxury brand opposed to being focused on low cost sporty cars, their brand DNA remains clear with each new model. The TLX Type-S is, for me, one of the most impressive designs for me personally in recent years. It has an aggressive and mean look without being over styled, something that is increasingly rare nowadays. The highlight of the design for me is the headlights, which are wonderfully crisp and sleek, matching with the overall design. The wheels are also very cool, and the black details contrast delightfully with the royal blue on this particular model.  

9.2/10

3: Honda Civic Si

I just think it's wonderful that ordinary cars like the Honda Civic can look so sleek and up-scale while remaining in a reasonable price range. It's not just the Civic, mainstream sedans like the Kia K5, Hyundai Elantra, Hyundai Sonata, Toyota Camry, etc... have all upped their style game recently, and the current generations of all of those sedans are knockouts. I picked the Civic because Honda have been killing it for a while now, and the Civic Si is only the latest example of that. With a gorgeous profile and wonderfully flowing lines, I am really impressed by what Honda have done here.

9.8/10

--

Josiah Peters, MoreThanTransport

No Longer Old As The Trees: New Toyota Seqouia Gets Stunning Update

 

 

 The new generation of the Toyota Sequoia has been released, and it's a stunner. It has a new hybrid powertrain and nearly everything inside and out has been changed. It better be, because the current generation of the Sequoia has been the same for nearly 13 years. That one was an anonymous mess, but the new version we are seeing has potential to be a terrific SUV. One of the primary reasons for that is the sleek and muscular exterior design. You can see Toyota's design language clearly, especially with the details on the side profile as well as the headlights and taillights that can also be found on the Tundra and Tacoma trucks. The well-defined curves under the C-Pillar give the design an unmistakable personality, while the black tires are a nice contrast to the white. 

The new Sequoia has more than just rugged looks to it, though. It will tow an impressive 9,000 lbs., a massive 22% increase over the prior generation, even though the new one doesn't have a V8. It instead uses a V6 paired with a hybrid powertrain, a configuration that is used on the majority of performance cars these days (Think: McLaren P1, Lexus LC). 

Safety, like all modern Toyotas, is world-class in the Seqouia. Collision detection, automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert and correction, automatic high beams, blind spot monitor, and parking assistance are all featured. 

The Sequoia will be built at the San Antonio plant in Texas that also assembles the mechanically similar Tundra truck.  Pricing and fuel economy will be released as the SUV nears production.

-

If you enjoyed this article about the hot new Toyota Sequoia, be sure to follow MTT for more news from the car world.

Finally! Toyota Teases Refresh For Ancient Sequoia SUV

 

The Sequoia, practically old as the mountains, is getting a much-needed update. The current gen has been around since 2007 without any significant changes, which has seen it fall way behind the competitors. Although Toyota have only given us just a glance at the next generation of the Sequoia, it looks modern with crisp taillights and some interesting side profile lines. Also, the C-Pillar features a blackened panel that makes the design look more connected. Most exciting, if you look close enough, there seems to be homage paid to previous generations, something that will surely resonate with Toyota purists. All things considered, it's encouraging that the Japanese automaker didn't give up on their legendary SUV, and it seems from what we can see that they did it justice. 

----

For more news about the Toyota Sequoia, as well as news encompassing the entire car industry, be sure to follow MTT.

For Real This Time: Hyundai Ioniq 6 Set to Rival Tesla's Model 3

 

Hyundai have a new car on the way, and it may well be their most important yet. Turning away from the frustration-inducting tactics of rival companies, Hyundai aren't debuting something that will come in 3-4 years, as the sleek-looking Ioniq 6 sedan is slated to arrive sometime this year. It joins the Ioniq, the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 5, and Ioniq 7 in Hyundai's EV lineup. This may well be the most mainstream of them all, and it will provide stiff competition for the wildly succesful Tesla Model 3. The picture above is from Car&Driver, who managed to get a peek at what is likely to be Hyundai's top selling car in the near future. Keep posted to MTT for more updates on all the good stuff coming from Hyundai, as well as other notable news.

Why You Shouldn't Buy The New Acura Integra

 

The legendary Acura Integra is back, baby! Except there is not actually much to be excited about with this one. The biggest reason is that it is essentially a Civic Si with slightly fancier body panels and a generally sportier design, although that sportiness is only skin deep. Also, many have pointed out that if recent history continues, the new Integra will receive performance tuning that will effectively make the car less capable handling at higher speeds. All this to say, even as the massive Integra superfan I am, there is little to make this a car that you should spend an est. $32K on. You could spend around $4K less and end up with the same car, the 2022 Honda Civic Si, or could opt for the more interesting and capable Acura TLX Type-S, or go outside of the brand with something like the Genesis G70, Hyundai Elantra N, or Kia K5 GT-Line. Just a thought.